Ukraine crowdfunded to buy a former US Army Black Hawk [Video]

Crowdfunding is an incredibly powerful tool. It can be used for charitable causes like offsetting the cost of medical bills for a struggling family or ridiculous causes like turning a millionaire into a billionaire. In the midst of defending itself against Russia’s invasion, Ukraine crowdfunded $6 million to purchase a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter.

With the ability to hover, land, and take off right on the frontlines, helicopters are a vital lifeline for troops in modern warfare. Ukraine flies Soviet-era Mi-8/Mi-17 Hip and Mi-24 Hind helicopters and has received donations of both models from allied nations, including the United States. However, Kyiv’s requests for western helicopters like the Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk have not been granted. Undeterred, Ukraine bought one.

In April 2023, ABC Newsreported that Ukraine got around U.S. restrictions on the Black Hawk by purchasing …